2016 has already been an incredibly exciting year, and this fall marks a milestone of which I am very proud: my 25th anniversary in fashion design. Lasting in this industry for a quarter century has been rewarding, wonderful, and tough, so I was honored when the city of Chicago invited me to participate in a retrospective at City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower.
I am so thrilled and proud of this exhibit, which features a display of fashion, textiles, and photography from both my archives and the current M2057 collection. It has been a pleasure to curate this show, tracing the evolution from luxury to ready-to-wear, from rare textiles to high-tech, high function fabrics.
The centerpiece of the exhibit, a photo series shot by my dear friend Sandro Miller, showcases COLLECTION 25, a special, limited edition capsule collection I designed in honor of the anniversary. COLLECTION 25 features pieces designed in gorgeous stretch leather, a first for the M2057 collection, and I could not be more excited to show it. Sandro was always my first choice to shoot this collection, since I knew he could capture the edge and power that I was seeking.
Photos by Sandro
I will be rotating the fashion displays during the next four months, so periodically there will be new things to see! I also will display an archived outfit at the M2057 Style Studio at 833 W Washington.
I am so grateful for the opportunity I've had to do what I love for the last 25 years, and to be surrounded by creative collaborators, including photographers, hair and makeup artists, and stylists, who have helped me achieve my vision along the way. Most of all, it has been an honor to work with so many amazing women, from colleagues to clients—thank you to everyone who has been with me for this journey.
Be well,
MARIA
MARIA PINTO - 25 YEARS
September 10, 2016 - January 8, 2017
City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower
806 N Michigan Avenue, Chicago
Open daily, 10am - 6:30pm
Order Collection 25: Limited Edition in Leather
BILLIE TOP + TURNER LEATHER SKIRT
ROSS LEATHER TOP + BLONDIE LEATHER SLEEVES + ELSIE SKIRT
SMITH LEATHER JACKET + BETTE SKIRT
HYNDE LEATHER TOP + BLONDIE LEATHER SLEEVES + JETT LEATHER PANT
Photos by Sandro